I hate apple butter. What's with that vile color, that repugnant texture, that lack of apple taste? And the gravest sin of all, not sweet! Here's a jam recipe for bright apples wallowing in a lush, sweet caramelized apple puree.

At the tail end of quince season, this butter is a great way to use quince too ripe for jam. Use a food processor if mashing fruit through a food mill isn't an option -- and throw in extra rosemary for a headier, more savory flavor.

Whether you have an apple tree or go to farmer's market, there's no mistake it's apple season! Together with your slow cooker, let's fill your kitchen or apartment with the aroma of sweet apples and spices without the big kettles of boiling water.